Pereskia bleo or Pokok Jarum Tujuh Bilah is a unique medicinal plant from the cactus family, though unlike most cacti, it has broad green leaves and thorny stems. It’s quite popular in traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian medicine, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore.
Medicinal Uses of Pokok Jarum Tujuh Bilah (Pereskia bleo)
- Anti-Cancer Potential
- One of the most well-known traditional uses.
- The leaves are believed to have anti-cancer properties, especially in helping to prevent or slow tumor growth.
- Usually consumed as a tea or juice.
- Contains flavonoids, phytosterols, and antioxidants that may contribute to these effects (scientific research is ongoing).
- Detoxification & General Health Tonic
- Used in traditional medicine to help cleanse the blood, detoxify the liver, and boost immunity.
- Often drunk as a daily herbal tea for general wellness.
- Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief
- Used to treat swelling, joint pain, and minor injuries.
- Leaves can be applied topically or taken internally.
- Wound Healing
- Crushed fresh leaves are used on wounds, boils, or skin irritations to aid in healing and reduce infection risk.
- Digestive Issues
- Taken to help with constipation, bloating, and gastric problems.
- It acts mildly as a digestive tonic.
- Antimicrobial Properties
- The plant has shown antibacterial and antifungal effects in some lab studies, supporting its use for infections and skin conditions.
Bioactive Compounds Found:
- Flavonoids – antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Saponins – may help lower cholesterol and support immune health
- Tannins – antimicrobial, astringent
- Phytosterols – linked to cancer-preventive effects
